In this episode, we honor the journey of Kevin Sweeney, who has a fascinating and unconventional spiritual journey. Once a pastor and now a hospice chaplain and author, Kevin shared his profound experiences, including a life-changing moment while taking mushrooms at the age of 18 that led him to what he believes was a direct encounter with God. We delved into his background, his transition from indifference towards religion to becoming deeply rooted in spirituality, and how his unique experiences informed his approach to faith and pastoring. Kevin also discussed his new book, "The Cosmic Christ and the Concrete Jesus," which synthesizes his mystical experiences and the influence of the black prophetic tradition, illustrating why he still identifies as a Christian despite his unorthodox path. Our conversation was enriching and insightful, revealing the depths of spiritual awakening and the power of love and compassion in our journeys.

This episode underscores the transformative power of pain and adversity. Lauren Cibene, author of Tiger in a Lifeboat, openly and vulnerably shares her life journey and how a seemingly insurmountable crisis and emotional turmoil can eventually lead to profound personal growth and self-realization. Through her experience of deep pain, panic, and despair, Lauren experienced a metamorphosis, emerging as the person she was always destined to become. Her story is a testament to the idea that from great struggle and suffering, a new and stronger self can bloom when we allow it. Her insights are beautiful and profound and I know you will learn from her incredible journey!

Join us as we honor the journey of Joe Boyd, a former pastor turned actor, movie producer, and deconstruction advocate, who shares his remarkable journey from traditional ministry to questioning foundational beliefs. Joe recounts how his discovery of deconstruction led him to leave the pulpit and explore his passion for performance and storytelling, eventually establishing a career in the creative industry. He candidly discusses the emotional and intellectual challenges of deconstructing faith, the stigma associated with it, and the new ways he found to honor his spirituality while helping others navigate similar journeys. Get ready for a deeply personal and insightful look into the complex process of deconstruction, drawing on Joe's unique experiences and perspectives.

In today’s episode, Leslie welcomes back Jim Palmer, a former evangelical mega church pastor turned advocate for religious deconstruction and non-religious spirituality. They delve into Jim's transformative journey from his early religious experiences to his crisis of faith and subsequent shift towards helping others navigate religious trauma and existential health. Jim shares insights from his recent sabbatical on a secluded island in British Columbia, discussing the importance of community, critical thinking, and self-trust in the deconstruction process. The conversation touches on the evolution of religious beliefs, the impact of societal structures on personal well-being, and the broader implications of moving towards a more inclusive, meta-modern understanding of spirituality rooted in personal meaning and love.

In this episode of "Honoring The Journey,"we welcome guest Jay Aedo, an author of children's books and a teacher of practical philosophy. The conversation delves into Jay’s unique and thought-provoking perspectives on storytelling, particularly how he reinterprets conventional Bible stories to teach children about personal responsibility. Jay discusses the impact of his religious upbringing as a Jehovah's Witness and his journey towards questioning and understanding faith, ultimately leading him to create stories that offer new ways of thinking. The episode touches on themes of love, authenticity, making courageous choices, and the importance of self-discovery, all illustrated through Jay's personal experiences and his new role as a father.

Today, we honor the journey of Plumb, the recording artist who Leslie used to play on the air when she was in Christian Radio. The conversation unveils Plumb’s transformative journey from her evangelical roots to becoming a fierce advocate for authenticity, kindness, and marginalized communities. Plumb shares her struggles with conformity, her evolution in beliefs about love and religion, and the impact of her divorce on her career and personal growth. The episode is a rich tapestry of vulnerability, resilience, and unwavering commitment to living truthfully and loving unconditionally, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace their paths with courage and compassion. The ladies also talk about Plumb’s new single, “Free”, a song that Leslie says is “her new anthem”!

Gary Mai, an inspiring podcaster and member of the LGBTQIA community, is our guest today on Honoring the Journey. Gary shares his compelling life story, marked by early childhood trauma, struggles with identity, and a long, arduous journey towards self-acceptance. The discussion delves into Gary's experiences growing up in a conservative religious environment, grappling with his sexuality, and ultimately finding solace and purpose through faith and the creation of his podcast. Leslie and Gary explore the deep impact of deconstructing religious beliefs, the transformative power of storytelling, and the importance of finding a supportive community. This conversation is a testament to resilience and the beauty that can emerge from overcoming life’s most challenging moments.

Today on Honoring the Journey, we have a deep conversation with Mike Maeshiro, a former ministry leader at Bethel and founder of the NUMA Foundation. We discussed his extraordinary journey of leaving evangelicalism, coming to terms with his sexuality, and navigating the complexities of his faith and identity within a conservative Christian framework. Mike shared deeply personal stories about his traumatic experiences with conversion therapy, the struggle of living a double life, and the eventual liberation he found in embracing his true self. Our dialogue touched on the importance of authenticity, the misinterpretation of biblical texts surrounding homosexuality, and the hope for a more inclusive and understanding religious community. Mike's story is a testament to the courage it takes to walk away from oppressive systems and to advocate for a more loving, accepting society.

Today, we welcome back Logan Barone to delve into the controversial topic of astrology, especially in the context of an evangelical upbringing. We discuss the historical and biblical underpinnings of astrology, contrasting them with the misconceptions held within certain religious communities. The conversation shifts to the significance of the Age of Aquarius, exploring its impact on spiritual awakening, individual divinity, and the shift away from institutionalized religion towards a more personal spiritual experience. To apply these insights, listeners are encouraged to explore astrology with an open mind, consider meditation practices to connect with their intuition, and recognize the cyclical nature of spiritual and historical transitions found within the pages of the Bible.

In this episode, we meet Logan Barone, a spiritual life coach, bestselling author, and former evangelical minister who underwent a transformative spiritual journey. The discussion delves into Logan's personal experiences, which catalyzed his deconstruction from rigid religious beliefs toward a spiritual awakening that emphasizes living in the present moment and embracing inner divinity. Key application points include the importance of trusting one's intuitive heart, the necessity of personal transformation as a catalyst for collective change, and the value of meditation in discovering one's true self. Logan shares insights on overcoming fear-based indoctrination, deconstructing harmful beliefs, and the transformative power of love and acceptance in personal spiritual growth.

In this bonus episode, we honor the journey of Charlotte Dalwood—a speaker and writer whose journey is both deeply personal and incredibly moving. Charlotte opens up about what it was like growing up as a trans woman in a conservative evangelical home, navigating mental health struggles, gender dysphoria, and the path to embracing her true self. This conversation is raw, honest, and full of heart. We talk about the courage it takes to live authentically, the importance of creating safe, supportive spaces, and how simply listening—without judgment—can be a life-changing act. Charlotte’s vulnerability reminds us of the healing power of sharing our stories and the connection that happens when we hold space for one another. Whether you're walking through a similar journey or just want to understand more deeply, this episode invites you into a conversation about empathy, acceptance, and the beauty of becoming who you truly are.

In this episode of "Honoring the Journey," Leslie welcomes Mary Terhune to discuss her profound experiences of spiritual awakening and transformation, as detailed in her book "Out of the Blue." Mary shares her journey from traditional religious upbringing to experiencing divine revelations that redefined her understanding of consciousness and healing. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of connecting with nature, the concept of consciousness-based medicine, and the transformative power of love. This episode encourages listeners to explore their inner spirituality, question conventional beliefs, and embrace holistic healing practices for personal growth and well-being.

Today we honor the journey of Zach Lambert, the lead pastor and founder of Restore Church in Austin, Texas. Leslie & Zach chat about his background, exploring his spiritual journey from a disenchanted youth in a conservative Southern Baptist environment to becoming a progressive church leader focused on justice, inclusivity, and a holistic interpretation of the gospel. They also discuss the challenges of deconstructing and reconstructing faith, the balance of maintaining relationships with family, and the intricacies of setting healthy boundaries. Leslie and Zach reflect on the broader implications of their faith journeys and how they contribute to a more inclusive, compassionate expression of Christianity.

Today on Honoring the Journey, Leslie chats with Peter Fenton, delving into his journey from their serendipitous meeting through his evolving identity and professional pursuits. Peter, a playwright, director and screenwriter shares his unique perspective shaped by a complex upbringing in a conservative evangelical environment. The conversation weaves through Peter's childhood loves, like Mario Party and Survivor, his transformative college years, and his eventual discovery and acceptance of his sexual orientation. It also touches upon broader themes of spirituality, rejection, and personal growth. Peter’s mission to make people laugh and think stands out as a central motif throughout their heartwarming and thought-provoking conversation.

Today on "Honoring the Journey," we welcome Amanda Carroll, a fellow-former-Christian Radio gal who Leslie met online and realized quickly that she wanted to know more about her faith and life journey! Amanda is the founder of the Single Mom Collective, a podcast and online community dedicated to empowering single mothers. Amanda shares her inspiring story, detailing her extensive career in radio, her struggles and triumphs as a single mother, and her journey through faith deconstruction. Together, Leslie and Amanda delve into the challenges and rewards of navigating life after leaving Christian radio, the importance of authentic spirituality, and the critical need for love and support in overcoming life's hardships. Their candid conversation also highlights how they've transformed their personal and professional experiences to help others find their path.

In this episode of "Honoring the Journey," we honor the journey of Paul Young, the renowned author of "The Shack." Leslie expresses her excitement about finally having Paul on the show, sharing a personal anecdote about how his book profoundly impacted her spiritual journey after a challenging experience on Survivor China. They discuss the controversy surrounding "The Shack" in evangelical circles, delve into Paul's tumultuous past, including his struggles with sexual abuse, addiction, and a life-changing experience, while exploring the transformative journey of healing both he and his wife underwent. Together, they touch on themes of God's love, trust, living in the present, and the power of storytelling, offering listeners deep insights into spiritual growth and personal redemption. The conversation is heartfelt, raw, and deeply inspirational, providing a compelling testimony to the power of faith and resilience.

Today on Honoring the Journey, you’ll meet Daniel Bannoura, a Palestinian theologian, scholar, podcaster, and entrepreneur, who shares his captivating personal journey. From his lucid childhood memories in Bethlehem and Indiana to his poignant accounts of the Gulf War, Daniel discusses his multifaceted career and profound insights on faith, politics, and activism. The conversation delves into his experiences as a pastor's kid, his passion for academic excellence, and his work with the Palestinian Federation for Ultimate Frisbee. Daniel passionately critiques American evangelical support for the Israeli occupation, emphasizes practical love, and offers a detailed recount of the harsh realities faced by Palestinians, particularly in Gaza. Through stories of resilience and a call for justice, Daniel inspires listeners to question preconceived political beliefs and engage in meaningful activism informed by genuine Christian love.

In this episode of "Honoring the Journey," Leslie welcomes her friend Shannon Hunt. They delve into Shannon's unique perspective on life, highlighting how their friendship, despite Shannon being an atheist and Leslie having a religious background, has been enriching and transformative. The conversation explores Shannon's journey from her challenging upbringing in the LDS faith to her eventual departure from religion, citing a pivotal moment in her young adulthood as the catalyst for her newfound independence and success. Shannon also shares details about her career transition from the pharmaceutical industry to becoming a full-time author and social media influencer. She talks about her popular "Midlife Shuffle" dance page on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, which has inspired many to embrace movement as a form of health and joy, particularly targeting midlifers. Leslie and Shannon discuss the importance of finding purpose after significant life changes, such as empty nesting, and how this has driven them to soul-search and redefine their lives. The episode is filled with reflections on the nature of belief, the impact of upbringing, and the discovery of personal purpose. Shannon’s journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, encouraging listeners to question, explore, and find their paths, all while embracing a sense of community and shared humanity.

In this episode, Leslie has a dynamic conversation with guest Justin Scoggins, an author and day center director. Justin shares insights about his new book "Inking Christ," which explores the theological perspectives on tattoos. They also delve into his personal story of overcoming addiction, experiencing a transformative encounter with Jesus, and finding his place in pastoral ministry. The discussion covers their favorite TV shows, the symbolism behind their tattoos, and the importance of embracing diversity and mutual respect in faith and life. Trigger warning: there is talk of thoughts of suicide in this episode. Please be aware.

Today, we welcome Liz Charlotte Grant, an award-winning nonfiction writer from Colorado, where we dive into Liz's background and her dedication to empathy, which she often explores in her newsletter, "The Empathy List." We chat about Liz's experiences growing up, her faith journey, and her role as a birth doula, providing an insightful look into how she navigated her life and spiritual beliefs. The conversation also touches upon Liz's new book, "Knock at the Sky: Seeking God in Genesis After Losing Faith in the Bible," exploring themes of deconstruction, therapy, and the different lenses through which we interpret religious texts. This is a very open and candid dialogue about the complexities of faith, parenting, and the liberation found in embracing uncertainty, making for a deeply engaging and thought-provoking episode.